J. Kinne and U. Wernery
Central Veterinary Research Laboratory, P.O. Box 597, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.)
ABSTRACT
This paper describes the experimental introduction of a mange-infected camel into a clean herd, with subsequent observations of the resulting effects on the herd. Twelve days after the introduction, 2 camels developed pruritus, followed by alopecia with papule development. One week later all four trial camels had contracted mange. The four camel caretakers developed pseudo-scabies two days following exposure, which required therapy. Due to the recurrence of clinical symptoms, it was necessary to repeat treatment on several occasions. All four trial animals had to be treated with ivermectin injections. However, mange reappeared and only an intensive treatment regimen eradicated the disease. This regimen included ivermectin- injection, ivermectin-bolus, spraying of camels and pens and movement to other pens. A second herd became infected five months after introduction of the mangy camel and had to undergo the same treatment regimen to eradicate the disease.
Mites were only found in skin biopsies in the two out of four experimentally infected and pruritic camels. However, in the chronically infected mangy herd from which the infected camel originated, eleven out of fifteen cases were confirmed.
Key words: Camelus dromedarius, contact transmission/infection, pseudoscabies, sarcoptic mange, Sarcoptes scabiei, treatment
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